What is matcha?

Photo: Iain Bagwell; Styling: Emma Star Jensen

Marge Perry

August 10, 2012

Matcha is a Japanese green tea powder, prized for its bitter but alluring flavor, vivid green color and health benefits. Unlike most other teas, matcha is not made by steeping the leaves: the powdered leaves are actually dissolved into the hot water.

Matcha is not just consumed as a tea, however. It lends beautiful rich green color and a complex layer of flavor to sweet and savory dishes.